Dubai: Thousands of volunteers are gearing up for the largest environmental clean-up across the United Arab Emirates starting this Saturday, said organisers Emirates Environmental Group (EEG).
The popular campaign will be launched at Dubai Al Ain Road, near Dubai Outlet Mall under the patronage of Sultan Al Mansouri, Minister of Economy, who said environmental protection practices are one of the most prominent manifestations of developed countries and societies.
He pointed to the UAE’s keenness to instill a culture of preserving the environment and its resources, which are considered as assets for future generations and collectively form a pillar for achieving sustainable development.
The minister added that paying attention to the cleanliness of the environment, showing its beauty and elegance, and protecting it from waste and destruction are vital to improving the environmental system and enhancing its sustainability.
He also pointed to the great role volunteer work plays in this regard, which is considered a great support to governmental efforts to protect the environment. He highlighted the importance of ‘Clean Up UAE’ as a pioneering national initiative that stems from the values of Emirati society and which is in line with UAE Vision 2021’s goal of maintaining a supportive and sustainable environment.
Habiba Al Marashi, EEG chairperson, said the role of the organisation to protect and preserve the environment has been clear and effective for the past 26 years.
“The current cycle of the campaign aims to emphasise the importance of working together to make the country a healthier place, as well as highlighting the responsibility and actions that the individual should take towards a better environment” said Al Marashi.
The campaign, initiated by the group 16 years ago, coincides with the UAE National Day celebrations.
‘Clean Up UAE’ is the most popular national programme, aiming to protect the local environment, said Al Marashi.
When the campaign was first established in 2002, it gained participation from only four Emirates. With a large number of public, private and academic institutions joining the campaign in 2005, the group was able to unite all seven Emirates under the umbrella of this initiative.
